In three words or phrases: I like to have a regular discussion about the project and about the experiments. I like to help students troubleshoot their experimental problems and I am supportive and generally laid back.
Provision of Training
Doing a PhD is learning to be independent. I expect the PhD students after the initial training to be able to be able to figure out independently what is the best method to follow, and also come with their own new ideas for new experiments. However, I also like to regularly engage in discussions about every aspect of the project. The practical training in the lab will be primarily provided by other PhD students, postdocs, and technicians.
Progression Monitoring and Management
The student is expected to be responsible for the progression of the project, but I am always to discuss ideas and troubleshoot experiments. I like to be kept up to date with the progress of the project. We have lab meetings once a week and the student is expected to present approximately once a month to this meeting, either in the form of a progress report or in the form of a discussion about a recent development in the field of recent techniques. I expect the student to engage with others in the lab and outside to communicate what they do - this lab is committed to open science at any stage. The student should wish to contribute to science by publishing or presenting their research at conferences and to the biosciences community. I am committed to helping the student reach the goal they aim for, even if this may differ from my own.
Communication
I am happy to discuss science and the project at any time including outside standard working hours. However, I do not demand that students be available outside of standard working hours. I do expect the student to contribute to the maintenance of the lab together in communication with the rest of the team. Again, I do also expect the student to be willing to discuss lab and science matters, including their project, with other lab members, and to be open and willing to help others. Therefore, as well as communicating with myself, I expect the student to readily communicate also with other lab members the discoveries and failures.
PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:
In a group meeting
At least once per week, but always around if wanted.
In year 1 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
In year 2 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
In year 3 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
These meetings will be a mixture of face to face and via video chat or telephone, and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.
Working Pattern
The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.
Notice Period for Feedback
I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.
